SINGAPORE-- Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48) departed
Singapore after a successful port visit, June 27.
While in Singapore, Ashland Sailors and embarked Marines of 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marines had
the opportunity to enjoy the culture and history of Singapore and strengthen relations with the
Singapore community.
Sailors and Marines volunteered at a local soup kitchen, helping to prepare food and clean up the
facilities.
"This was a great port visit to enhance our relationship with our Singapore partners and afford
the crew an opportunity to see such a culturally-rich country,” said Cmdr. Daniel Duhan,
Ashland's commanding officer. “As we head back to sea, our crew stands postured to conduct
operations soundly and professionally, while demonstrating our commitment to our regional
partners.”
USS Ashland and embarked Marines have been participating in the Cooperation Afloat
Readiness and Training (CARAT) series that have included bilateral and multilateral
engagements with partner nations -- including, Malaysia, the Philippines and Thailand -- in an
effort to enhance relationships, increase interoperability, and peace and security in the Indo-Asia-
Pacific region.
Ashland, part of Amphibious Force 7th Fleet, and embarked Marines of 2nd Battalion, 2nd
Marines are conducting a routine patrol in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of
partnership building and regional security.
Commander, Amphibious Force U.S. 7th Fleet is the Navy's only forward-deployed amphibious
force, headquartered at White Beach Naval Facility, Okinawa.